Why Home Elevator Installation Isn’t a DIY Project

Installing a home elevator is a major decision — and it’s not one you should ever try to DIY. While some online companies promote “easy installation kits,” the reality is that elevator and lift installations require specialized knowledge, construction experience, and licensing. Without that, you’re putting safety, time, and money on the line. Installing a home elevator may seem like a manageable project — especially if you’ve come across those tempting “DIY kits” online — but the truth is, elevator installation is far from a weekend hobby.

It’s Not Just Plug-and-Play

Installing a home elevator involves can include some significant renovation work — things like cutting through floors, reinforcing framing, installing electrical systems, and aligning heavy mechanical parts. One wrong measurement or skipped step can lead to costly mistakes and major safety hazards.

It May Be Illegal for an Unlicensed Person to Install

Many states don’t allow unlicensed technicians to install elevators or lifts. Local codes often require licensed professionals for safety and compliance reasons. If you don’t follow your jurisdiction’s rules, you risk failing inspections, voiding warranties, or being required to remove the system altogether.

At C.H. Elevator, we’re licensed, insured, and familiar with the code requirements in Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. We handle the entire process — permits, inspections, and installation — so you don’t have to worry about what’s legal or not.

Be Wary of “Talk-Through” Installation Offers

Some low-cost elevator retailers try to cut corners by shipping a unit and offering to talk your builder or contractor through the install. Sounds convenient — but here’s the truth:

Most builders are not trained elevator technicians
Install time becomes significantly longer due to inexperience
Mistakes cost you more — in both repairs and delays
Safety and liability issues fall on your shoulders

Even if the contractor is skilled, this method is risky and inefficient. You could end up paying more for labor while getting a less reliable system.

Installation Should Be Included — and Done by the Same Company

Some companies give you a quote that sounds too good to be true… because it is. Often, that low price doesn’t include installation, or they outsource the install to someone you’ve never met.

That’s not how we do it.

We do installs, yes we do! We do installs — how about you(r guy)?

At C.H. Elevator, we do everything in-house. You’ll know exactly who’s installing your elevator, and we’re accountable for the whole process — no outsourcing, no surprise add-ons.

Risks of DIY or Inexperienced Installs

🚫 Safety hazards for your family
🚫 Code violations or failed inspections
🚫 Voided product warranties
🚫 More stress, time, and cost

An elevator is a long-term investment. It deserves professional attention and qualified expertise from start to finish.

Trust the Experts — Get Peace of Mind

With over 20 years of experience and hundreds of successful installations, we’ve helped homeowners, builders, and architects choose the right product — and install it the right way. From shaftless models to traditional elevators and platform lifts, we’ll walk you through what’s best for your home and make sure the job gets done right.

Ready for a quote or consultation? Let’s talk — we’re happy to help, and we’ll show you exactly what’s included.

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